By Isle of Wight Observer
On Saturday, the High Sheriff’s Inter-Schools Mock Trial Competition took place at Newport Crown Court.
The competition has been running for more than 11 years and thousands of Island pupils have taken part. Each Island school produced teams of students to prosecute and defend a case, in front of a qualified judge in Newport’s Crown Court.
Initially introduced by Nick Hayward when he was High Sheriff in 2012, in conjunction with retired judge, Tim Milligan, and retired tribunal judge, Tim O’Flynn, the event enables young students to experience how the legal process operates. It also allows them to enhance their public speaking skills, self-confidence and teamwork.
The winners received the High Sheriff’s trophy, sponsored by Rouse and presented by High Sheriff, Dawn Haig-Thomas.
The winning team this year was the Island Sixth Form, closely followed by Christ The King College and then the Priory School.
It was an exciting day with students displaying a real sense of professionalism and confidence in their performances. The judges and legal professionals commented on the high standards reached by students, and congratulated both them and teachers for their hard work, dedication and understanding of the legal process.
Dave Sweet, from Ryde Academy, said: “It is, without doubt, the best school trip experience. All students were beaming when they came out of the court room.”